Virginia J. “Ginnie” Preston, 95, of Van Wert, passed away in the early morning hours of Saturday, April 18, 2026. She was born on December 21, 1930, in Woodburn, Indiana, to Herman and Emma (Riebersal) Woebbeking, who both preceded her in death. On September 3, 1949, Virginia married the love of her life, Richard “Dick” […]
POSTED: 04/20/26 at 10:48 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
Johnie A. Patrick, 92, of Van Wert, passed away Friday evening, April 17, 2026, at Van Wert Manor nursing home. He was born July 9, 1933, in Kentucky, the son of Frank and Leona (McCarty) Patrick, who both preceded him in death. On September 3, 1961, he married the love of his life, Creaddle Elaine […]
POSTED: 04/20/26 at 10:43 am. FILED UNDER: Obituaries
SCOTT TRUXELL/independent editor Nearly two weeks into Ohio’s early voting period, more than 600 registered voters in Van Wert County have taken advantage of the option ahead of the May 5 primary election. According to Pam Henderson, Director of the Van Wert County Board of Elections, 565 voters cast ballots in-person as of 5 p.m. […]
POSTED: 04/19/26 at 11:08 pm. FILED UNDER: News
At 4:12 p.m. Sunday, Van Wert City Police and Fire EMS units were called to a car/mini-bike accident at the intersection of Shannon and Main streets. The operator of the mini-bike, which ended up under the front bumper of the car, was not injured and no medical assistance was required. No other details were available […]
POSTED: 04/19/26 at 10:50 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent staff/submitted information COLUMBUS — The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles has announced its self-service kiosks have surpassed one million transactions, marking a major milestone in expanding customer convenience and reducing wait times statewide. “Reaching one million kiosk transactions is a testament to how much Ohioans value speed, simplicity, and convenience,” said Registrar Charlie Norman. […]
POSTED: 04/19/26 at 10:50 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent/submitted information Make plans today and Tuesday, April 21, as the Freedom 250 Tour Truck traveling interactive exhibit stops in the Vantage Career Center parking lot from 3-6 p.m. This free community event offers a hands-on look at American history and is perfect for students, families, and community members of all ages. Bring a […]
POSTED: 04/19/26 at 10:49 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Van Wert Lodge No. 1197, Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks have selected Lincolnview High School senior Harper Reindel (above) and Crestview High School senior Caroline Marks (below) as Students of the Month for April. Students are nominated by their high schools to receive this award. Each Student of the Month receives a monetary donation […]
POSTED: 04/19/26 at 10:49 pm. FILED UNDER: News
Submitted information CONVOY — The Village of Convoy Historical Society invites the public to attend a lecture and discussion at 2 p.m. this Sunday, April 26, featuring James Lautzenheiser. The topic is Abraham Lincoln, and Lautzenheiser will explore textual examples of how the fundamental principles and values of America’s founding impacted the philosophical development of […]
POSTED: 04/19/26 at 10:49 pm. FILED UNDER: News
VW independent sports/submitted information OTTAWA — The Van Wert Cougars track and field team faced some of the area’s toughest competition Friday at the prestigious OG Gold Medal Invitational, and the Cougars rose to the challenge with several standout performances and historic achievements. Leading the way was freshman Livie Parrish, who delivered a record-breaking performance in […]
POSTED: 04/18/26 at 8:36 am. FILED UNDER: Sports
VW independent sports Softball Bath 10 Van Wert 2 LIMA — Haley Dunlap doubled home Layla Sudduth for a 1-0 first inning lead, but Bath came alive offensively in the third inning and the Wildcats went on to defeat the Cougars 10-2 on Friday. The Wildkittens scored three runs in the third, two in the […]
POSTED: 04/17/26 at 8:29 pm. FILED UNDER: Sports